Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Jaundice itself is not a disease but a sign of an underlying condition affecting the liver, bile ducts, or red blood cells. At Blume Health, our gastroenterology team offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for jaundice and its underlying causes.

Treatable Condition

Expert Care Available

Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Home Care Prevention Surgery

Get Expert Care Today

Connect with our specialists for personalized treatment and diagnosis

What Causes It?

Pre-hepatic causes (increased production of bilirubin): Hemolytic anemias, Gilbert's syndrome

Hepatic causes (liver dysfunction): Viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, cirrhosis

Post-hepatic causes (obstruction): Gallstones, pancreatic cancer, bile duct cancer, pancreatitis

Certain medications and their side effects

Autoimmune conditions affecting the liver

Genetic disorders like Wilson's disease or hereditary hemochromatosis

Pregnancy-related liver conditions

Parasitic infections such as malaria

Signs & Symptoms

Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes

Dark or amber-colored urine

Pale or clay-colored stools

Itching (pruritus)

Abdominal pain or tenderness

Swelling in the abdomen (ascites)

Nausea and vomiting

Fever and chills (in case of infection)

Fatigue and weakness

Weight loss

Mental confusion or drowsiness (in severe cases)

Easy bruising or bleeding (in liver disease)

How We Diagnose

Our specialists use advanced diagnostic methods to accurately identify and assess your condition

Blood Tests

Liver function tests to measure bilirubin levels and enzyme activities; complete blood count to check for anemia or infection; tests for viral hepatitis markers.

Imaging Studies

Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI of the abdomen to examine the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas for abnormalities or blockages.

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

A procedure that combines endoscopy and X-ray to examine the bile ducts and pancreatic duct, and potentially remove gallstones or place stents.

MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)

A specialized MRI technique that produces detailed images of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreatic duct without the need for invasive procedures.

Liver Biopsy

A procedure where a small sample of liver tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to determine the cause of liver disease.

Treatment Options

Personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and condition

Treatment of Underlying Cause

The primary approach is to identify and treat the condition causing jaundice, whether it's an infection, blockage, or liver disease.

Medications

Depending on the cause, treatments may include antiviral medications for hepatitis, antibiotics for infections, or medications to improve liver function.

Endoscopic or Surgical Procedures

Procedures to remove blockages in the bile ducts, such as gallstones, or to place stents to keep ducts open may be necessary.

Supportive Care

Managing symptoms like itching, nutritional support, and monitoring for complications while the body heals.

Home Remedies

Rest and Hydration

Adequate rest and staying well-hydrated help the body recover and process bilirubin more efficiently.

Balanced Diet

Eating a diet that's easy on the liver, low in fat, and high in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can support liver function.

Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications

Avoiding alcohol and certain medications that can stress the liver is essential during recovery from jaundice.

Manage Itching

Cool baths, moisturizers, and wearing loose cotton clothing can help reduce the itching associated with jaundice.

Prevention Tips

Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B

Practicing safe sex and avoiding shared needles to prevent hepatitis B and C

Moderate alcohol consumption or abstinence

Maintaining a healthy weight

Regular exercise

Balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Avoiding potentially hepatotoxic medications or supplements

Regular health check-ups, especially if at risk for liver disease

Proper food and water hygiene, especially when traveling

Managing chronic conditions like diabetes that can affect liver health

Surgical Solutions

Advanced surgical procedures performed by our expert specialists

Cholecystectomy

Surgical removal of the gallbladder, typically performed when gallstones are causing blockage and jaundice.

Biliary Bypass

A surgical procedure that creates an alternative pathway for bile to flow from the liver to the intestine when there is a blockage in the bile ducts.

Liver Transplantation

In cases of severe liver disease or failure, transplantation may be considered as a last resort treatment option.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Our specialists are here to provide expert care for jaundice. Schedule your consultation today.

Book Appointment Online Call: (040) 4402 0000

📞 Available Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM